IN GOOD HANDS

It’s never too early for girls and women to get involved in politics—and this book was designed to show them exactly how.

When former journalist and debut author MacKendrick asked former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright about the biggest challenge she’s ever faced, she was shocked at the accomplished woman’s answer: self-doubt. MacKendrick realized the need for a resource to encourage young women interested in politics. The book begins with a series of profiles including those of Canadian politician Michelle Stilwell, who is quadriplegic; bisexual Arizona senator Kyrsten Sinema, the only member of Congress who is openly nonreligious; Taiwanese American Boston city councilwoman Michelle Wu; and Jordan’s Palestinian Muslim minister for social development Hala Lattouf. The profiles, which feature women from Malawi, Israel, Afghanistan, and New Zealand, not only chronicle the women’s decisions to run for office, but also the obstacles they faced along the way. The final third of the book provides a comprehensive guide to running for office, with information about goal setting, building a support system, volunteering, networking, building a campaign platform, and finances; there is an extensive list of resources. MacKendrick’s text is blunt and practical without ever feeling unkind; her matter-of-fact tone is motivating while insisting on self-reflection. Overall the book is useful and encouraging, making it an ideal read for girls with political ambitions.

A comprehensive guide for young women interested in running for public office.